30 Traditional Korean Comfort Recipes You Need to Try

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Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and unique combinations of ingredients. From spicy stews to savory pancakes, Korean food is all about comfort, communal dining, and tradition.

Whether you're new to Korean food or a long-time fan, these 30 traditional recipes will introduce you to the soul of Korean cuisine, offering a wide range of dishes that highlight Korea’s rich food culture.

Get ready to explore the perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and umami in these beloved dishes.

1. Bibimbap

A signature Korean dish, Bibimbap is a colorful and nutritious rice bowl topped with an array of sautéed vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang (Korean red chili paste). The mix of textures and flavors makes it both satisfying and versatile, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients: White rice, spinach, carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, bean sprouts, fried egg, gochujang, sesame oil, soy sauce.

Variations: You can add bulgogi (marinated beef), tofu, or kimchi for extra protein and flavor. Bibimbap can also be served in a hot stone bowl (dolsot) for added crispiness.

2. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

One of Korea’s most popular comfort foods, Kimchi Jjigae is a hearty stew made with fermented kimchi, tofu, pork, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. The tangy and spicy notes of the kimchi make this stew a warming and comforting dish.

Ingredients: Kimchi, pork belly, tofu, onion, garlic, gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), soy sauce, sesame oil.

Variations: Substitute pork with beef or seafood for different versions. You can also add instant noodles for a heartier meal.

3. Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef)

Bulgogi is thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. It's typically grilled or stir-fried and served with rice and vegetables. Bulgogi’s tender texture and rich flavor have made it one of Korea’s most beloved dishes.

Ingredients: Beef sirloin or ribeye, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, onions, mushrooms, scallions.

Variations: Swap beef with chicken (dak bulgogi) or pork (dwaeji bulgogi) for different flavors. It’s also delicious as a filling for lettuce wraps.

4. Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)

Japchae is a sweet and savory dish made with glass noodles (dangmyeon) stir-fried with a mix of vegetables and beef. It’s seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar, giving it a delicate flavor balance. Japchae is often served at celebrations but can also be enjoyed as a satisfying side or main dish.

Ingredients: Glass noodles (sweet potato starch), beef, carrots, spinach, mushrooms, onions, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar.

Variations: Japchae can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables. You can also add seafood or tofu for a different twist.

5. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes simmered in a spicy gochujang sauce. It's often served with fish cakes, hard-boiled eggs, and green onions, creating a delightful mix of textures and bold flavors.

Ingredients: Rice cakes (tteok), gochujang, fish cakes, green onions, boiled eggs, sesame oil, sugar.

Variations: For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of gochujang or mix it with soy sauce. You can also add ramen noodles or cheese for an extra indulgent version.

6. Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)

Samgyeopsal is thick slices of pork belly grilled at the table, often served with ssamjang (a savory dipping sauce), lettuce leaves, garlic, and sliced green chilies. The simplicity of this dish allows the pork belly’s rich flavor to shine.

Ingredients: Pork belly, garlic, green chilies, ssamjang (fermented soybean paste), sesame oil, lettuce, soy sauce.

Variations: Try grilling the pork belly with onions and mushrooms for added flavor. You can also experiment with dipping sauces or add kimchi for a more complex flavor profile.

7. Sundubu Jjigae (Spicy Soft Tofu Stew)

Sundubu Jjigae is a comforting and spicy stew made with uncurdled tofu, vegetables, and often seafood or pork, cooked in a bubbling stone pot. The soft tofu's creamy texture absorbs the bold flavors of the broth, making this a heartwarming and satisfying dish.

Ingredients: Soft tofu (sundubu), pork or seafood, garlic, onions, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, green onions.

Variations: For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and use vegetable broth. You can also adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less gochugaru.

8. Kimchi Bokkeumbap (Kimchi Fried Rice)

A great way to use leftover rice and kimchi, Kimchi Bokkeumbap is a quick and flavorful fried rice dish. It's stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and sometimes pork or spam, creating a savory and tangy meal with a crispy rice texture.

Ingredients: Cooked rice, kimchi, pork or spam, egg, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions.

Variations: Add more vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You can also top it with a fried egg or shredded nori for an extra layer of richness.

9. Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Scallion Pancake)

Haemul Pajeon is a savory pancake made with a crispy batter filled with fresh seafood, green onions, and sometimes vegetables. It's a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish, often enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar.

Ingredients: Flour, eggs, green onions, shrimp, squid, clams, soy sauce, sesame oil.

Variations: You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the seafood or substitute different types of seafood depending on availability. Add kimchi for a spicy kick.

10. Galbi (Grilled Short Ribs)

Galbi refers to marinated beef short ribs grilled to perfection, making it a staple at Korean BBQ gatherings. The marinade, made from soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil, brings out the tenderness and flavor of the beef.

Ingredients: Beef short ribs, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, Asian pear, scallions.

Variations: For a sweeter flavor, add more sugar or use honey in the marinade. You can also cook Galbi on a grill pan or even in the oven for convenience.

11. Gimbap (Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls)

Gimbap is Korea's version of a sushi roll, made with cooked rice and a variety of fillings like vegetables, eggs, and sometimes meat, wrapped in seaweed. It’s a popular on-the-go snack or picnic food.

Ingredients: Cooked rice, seaweed sheets, carrots, spinach, eggs, pickled radish, sesame oil, sesame seeds.

Variations: Add bulgogi or canned tuna for extra protein. You can also experiment with different fillings like cheese, avocado, or kimchi.

12. Dakdoritang (Spicy Chicken Stew)

Dakdoritang is a fiery chicken stew simmered in a spicy broth made from gochujang, soy sauce, and vegetables like potatoes and carrots. It’s a bold and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients: Chicken, potatoes, carrots, gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions.

Variations: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

13. Naengmyeon (Cold Buckwheat Noodles)

Naengmyeon is a refreshing cold noodle dish made with chewy buckwheat noodles served in a tangy, icy broth. It’s a perfect meal for hot summer days, often garnished with cucumbers, boiled eggs, and slices of beef.

Ingredients: Buckwheat noodles, beef broth, vinegar, mustard, cucumber, boiled egg, sesame seeds.

Variations: You can make Bibim Naengmyeon, a spicier version of the dish, by adding gochujang. You can also add slices of pear for a touch of sweetness.

14. Sigeumchi Namul (Seasoned Spinach)

Sigeumchi Namul is a simple side dish made by blanching spinach and seasoning it with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. It’s a popular banchan (side dish) that pairs well with rice and main dishes.

Ingredients: Spinach, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds.

Variations: Add a bit of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) for some spice. You can also substitute spinach with other leafy greens like bok choy.

15. Bossam (Korean Boiled Pork Wraps)

Bossam is tender, thinly sliced pork belly that is boiled with aromatic ingredients and served with cabbage or lettuce wraps. It’s traditionally eaten with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces like ssamjang.

Ingredients: Pork belly, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, cabbage, ssamjang, sesame oil.

Variations: You can serve Bossam with a side of kimchi for a more traditional flavor. Try using different cuts of pork or even substitute with chicken.

16. Banchan (Korean Side Dishes)

Banchan refers to the small side dishes served with a Korean meal, usually including kimchi, pickled vegetables, seasoned seaweed, and marinated tofu. These dishes are integral to the Korean dining experience and offer a variety of textures and flavors to complement the main course.

Ingredients: Kimchi, seasoned seaweed, marinated tofu, pickled radish, soybean sprouts.

Variations: There are countless variations of Banchan, depending on the region and ingredients. You can mix and match based on your preferences, from spicy to mild flavors.

17. Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)

Japchae is a popular Korean dish made from sweet potato starch noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and a savory soy sauce-based dressing. This dish is known for its chewy noodles and the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients: Sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon), spinach, carrots, mushrooms, onions, beef, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar.

Variations: You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the beef and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference.

18. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Samgyetang is a nourishing chicken soup made with a whole young chicken stuffed with rice, garlic, ginseng, and jujube, simmered until the broth is rich and flavorful. This dish is traditionally eaten during the summer months to replenish energy.

Ingredients: Whole chicken, garlic, ginseng, jujube, glutinous rice, green onions, salt, pepper.

Variations: Some recipes add additional herbs like Korean mugwort for more medicinal benefits. You can also make this dish with cornish hen for individual servings.

19. Soondubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)

Soondubu Jjigae is a spicy Korean stew made with uncurdled tofu, vegetables, and often seafood or pork, all simmered in a flavorful broth. The soft tofu adds a silky texture to this comforting stew, which is typically served with rice.

Ingredients: Soft tofu, clams, pork, kimchi, gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, eggs.

Variations: Add mushrooms or shrimp to change up the flavors. Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of gochujang or gochugaru.

20. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes stir-fried in a spicy and sweet gochujang sauce. It's a favorite snack enjoyed by people of all ages and is often served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and green onions.

Ingredients: Rice cakes, gochujang, fish cakes, green onions, sugar, sesame oil, boiled eggs.

Variations: You can make a milder version by reducing the gochujang or substitute it with soy sauce for a non-spicy version. Add cheese for a creamy, modern twist.

21. Bibim Guksu (Spicy Cold Noodles)

Bibim Guksu is a refreshing cold noodle dish made with thin wheat noodles, spicy gochujang-based sauce, and various fresh vegetables. It’s a popular summer dish known for its tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors.

Ingredients: Thin wheat noodles, gochujang, sesame oil, cucumber, carrots, boiled eggs, sugar, vinegar.

Variations: Add slices of cold beef or tofu for extra protein. You can also adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the sauce depending on your taste.

22. Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup)

Seolleongtang is a milky white soup made from simmering ox bones, brisket, and other cuts of beef for hours, resulting in a rich and hearty broth. This dish is often enjoyed with rice, and its simplicity makes it a staple comfort food in Korean cuisine.

Ingredients: Ox bones, beef brisket, garlic, green onions, salt, pepper.

Variations: Add noodles or thinly sliced radish for more texture. You can also make a faster version using pre-made bone broth.

23. Gamjatang (Pork Bone Soup)

Gamjatang is a spicy soup made with pork spine, potatoes, and napa cabbage, flavored with gochugaru and perilla seeds. It’s a hearty and warming dish that is perfect for cold weather and is often eaten as a late-night meal.

Ingredients: Pork spine, potatoes, napa cabbage, gochugaru, perilla seeds, sesame oil.

Variations: Add perilla leaves for an earthy flavor or substitute pork with chicken for a lighter version. You can also add ramen noodles toward the end of cooking for a more filling dish.

24. Kkongchi Jorim (Braised Mackerel)

Kkongchi Jorim is a flavorful braised fish dish made with mackerel cooked in a savory soy sauce-based broth with vegetables. The fish becomes tender and infused with the rich flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and chili peppers.

Ingredients: Mackerel, soy sauce, garlic, green onions, chili peppers, sugar, radish.

Variations: Use other types of fish like cod or sardines for a different flavor. You can also add tofu or potatoes for extra texture and heartiness.

25. Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Scallion Pancake)

Haemul Pajeon is a savory Korean pancake made with green onions and a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and mussels. The pancake is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a popular appetizer or snack.

Ingredients: Green onions, shrimp, squid, mussels, pancake mix, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil.

Variations: You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the seafood and adding vegetables like carrots and zucchini. Adjust the dipping sauce to your preference with more or less soy sauce or vinegar.

26. Bulgogi (Marinated Grilled Beef)

Bulgogi is a famous Korean dish made from thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and garlic. It is grilled or stir-fried and often served with lettuce leaves for wrapping.

Ingredients: Beef sirloin, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, onions, green onions, sesame seeds.

Variations: Substitute beef with pork or chicken. You can also add mushrooms and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

27. Sundubu Jjigae (Spicy Soft Tofu Stew)

Sundubu Jjigae is a spicy stew featuring silky, uncurdled tofu, vegetables, and sometimes seafood or pork, cooked in a rich, spicy broth. It’s served piping hot in a stone pot, often with a raw egg cracked on top for extra richness.

Ingredients: Soft tofu, pork belly, kimchi, seafood (optional), gochujang, garlic, green onions, sesame oil, eggs.

Variations: Add shrimp or clams for a seafood twist. Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the gochujang.

28. Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken)

Dakgalbi is a popular dish of marinated chicken stir-fried with cabbage, sweet potatoes, and rice cakes in a spicy gochujang sauce. The combination of tender chicken and chewy rice cakes makes it a hearty and flavorful meal.

Ingredients: Chicken thighs, gochujang, rice cakes, cabbage, sweet potatoes, sesame oil, soy sauce.

Variations: Add cheese on top for a cheesy version, or substitute the chicken with pork for a different take on the dish.

29. Kongguksu (Cold Soy Milk Noodles)

Kongguksu is a refreshing summer dish featuring thin wheat noodles served in a chilled soy milk broth. The creamy and nutty flavor of the soy milk pairs perfectly with the simplicity of the noodles.

Ingredients: Soybeans, wheat noodles, cucumbers, sesame seeds, salt.

Variations: Add finely chopped tomatoes or watermelon for a fruity contrast. Adjust the thickness of the soy milk to your liking by adding more or less water.

30. Gimbap (Korean Rice Rolls)

Gimbap is often compared to sushi, but it has its own unique Korean twist. The dish consists of steamed rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat, all rolled in seaweed. It’s commonly enjoyed as a snack or picnic food.

Ingredients: Seaweed sheets, steamed rice, spinach, carrots, pickled radish, beef, sesame oil, soy sauce.

Variations: You can replace the beef with tuna, crab meat, or simply make a vegetarian version with more vegetables. Gimbap can also be rolled with kimchi for a spicier option.